Authorities recently seized 360 pounds of cocaine, valued at $4.5 million, hidden in a trap compartment of a truck trailer in the Bronx. The Office of the Special Narcotics Prosecutor announced Wednesday that three men have been arrested in connection with the bust, which is one of the largest in recent years.
The cocaine was discovered packed in 163 kilogram-sized packages. This significant seizure highlights a troubling increase in cocaine trafficking in New York City.
Special narcotics prosecutor Bridget Brennan expressed concern, noting that this rise is particularly alarming as dangerous substances like fentanyl and xylazine are increasingly being mixed with cocaine sold on the streets.
The operation took place on Saturday when federal drug agents observed a black Maxx-D Trailer parked along 233rd Street in the Bronx. Shortly after, a gray Jeep Cherokee arrived, carrying Jeffrey Alcantara, who is alleged to be a New York City-based narcotics distributor.
Alcantara exited the Jeep and approached the trailer, where he was seen speaking with two other men, Karimzhan Ragibov and Rayimzhon Binaliyev. All three men have been charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance.
During the investigation, DEA agents and NYPD officers searched the Jeep Cherokee and discovered $30,000 in cash, further implicating the men in the drug trafficking operation.
Source: ABC7 NY
